Poor play by the Colts offensive line has been a recurring theme, leading to almost uncontested shots on quarterback Andrew Luck. The running game has suffered, too.

Written by

Stephen Holder
The Indianapolis Star

For all the sophisticated schemes in today's NFL, from intricate zone blitzes to run-pass options, some areas of the game remain simple.

One fundamental principle that never changes, no matter how much else might evolve: If you do not win consistently at the line of scrimmage, you greatly reduce your odds of winning.

For indisputable evidence of this notion, look no further than the Indianapolis Colts' recent play. Their inability to hold up at the point of attack, to win in the trenches on offense and defense, has been a source of cascading problems. ...